Read vs Peruse: Meaning And Differences

Are you someone who is often confused about the difference between the words “read” and “peruse”? Do you use them interchangeably? If yes, then this article is for you. In this article, we will explore the subtle differences between the two words and help you understand when to use each of them.

We should answer the question of which of the two words is the proper word. The answer is that both words are proper, but they have different meanings.

The word “read” means to look at and understand the meaning of written or printed matter by interpreting the characters or symbols of which it is composed. On the other hand, the word “peruse” means to read something, typically in a thorough or careful way.

Now that we have defined the two words, let’s dive deeper into their meanings and explore when to use each of them.

Define Read

Reading is the process of looking at and comprehending written or printed material. It involves decoding the symbols on a page to extract meaning, and can be done silently or aloud. Reading is an essential skill for communication, education, and personal growth, and is often considered a fundamental aspect of human culture.

Define Peruse

Perusing is similar to reading, but with a more focused and deliberate approach. It involves examining a text in detail, often with the intention of understanding or evaluating it. Perusing may involve reading selectively, skipping over less important sections, or rereading to clarify meaning. The word “peruse” is often used to imply a level of scrutiny or attention to detail that goes beyond casual reading.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Choosing the right word to use in a sentence can be tricky, especially when two words have similar meanings. One such example is the difference between “read” and “peruse.” In this article, we will discuss the proper usage of these words to help you communicate more effectively.

How To Use “Read” In A Sentence

The word “read” is a common verb used to describe the act of looking at and understanding written or printed material. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as:

She loves to read books about history.
He read the newspaper every morning.
I need to read this report before the meeting.

When using “read” in a sentence, it is important to consider the tense and subject-verb agreement. For example:

She reads books about history. (present tense)
He will read the newspaper tomorrow. (future tense)
They have read the report already. (past participle)

How To Use “Peruse” In A Sentence

The word “peruse” is a less common verb used to describe the act of reading something carefully and thoroughly. It is often used in a more formal or academic context, such as:

The lawyer perused the contract before signing it.
She perused the menu before deciding what to order.
The professor perused the student’s thesis with great interest.

When using “peruse” in a sentence, it is important to note that it implies a more detailed and careful reading than “read.” It is also typically used in the present tense, as it describes a current action. For example:

He is currently perusing the report to find any errors.
She peruses the newspaper every morning to stay informed.

Overall, choosing the right word to use in a sentence can greatly impact how your message is received. By understanding the differences between “read” and “peruse,” you can communicate more effectively and confidently in both written and spoken contexts.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words “read” and “peruse,” many people make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have distinct meanings and should be used appropriately. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Mistake #1: Using “Peruse” To Mean “Read Quickly”

It’s a common misconception that “peruse” means to read something quickly or skim through it. In fact, “peruse” actually means to read something carefully and thoroughly. Using it incorrectly can lead to confusion and misunderstandings.

Mistake #2: Using “Read” To Mean “Peruse”

On the other hand, using “read” to mean “peruse” can also be problematic. “Read” generally refers to the act of looking at and comprehending written or printed material, whereas “peruse” implies a more careful and detailed examination of the material.

Mistake #3: Using “Peruse” As A Synonym For “Browse”

Another mistake people make is using “peruse” as a synonym for “browse.” While both words imply looking at something in a casual or leisurely manner, “peruse” implies a more deliberate and focused examination of the material.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

Make sure you understand the definitions of both “read” and “peruse” before using them.
If you’re not sure which word to use, consult a dictionary or thesaurus.
Consider the context in which you’re using the word to determine which is more appropriate.
Be mindful of the connotations and implications of each word.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “read” and “peruse,” context is key. The decision to use one over the other can depend on the specific situation and the intended meaning.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are a few examples of different contexts and how the choice between “read” and “peruse” might change:

Context	Choice between “Read” and “Peruse”
Academic Writing	In academic writing, “read” is the more appropriate choice. This is because academic writing is typically more formal and requires a higher level of precision and accuracy. When reading an academic text, the goal is to fully understand the content and be able to discuss it in depth.
Online Shopping	In the context of online shopping, “peruse” is often used to indicate a more casual browsing of products. While “read” could also be used, it may come across as too formal or serious for the context. When perusing an online store, the goal is often to get a general idea of what’s available before making a decision.
Legal Documents	When it comes to legal documents, “read” is generally the more appropriate choice. This is because legal documents are often complex and require a high level of attention to detail. When reading a legal document, the goal is to fully understand the terms and implications.

As these examples demonstrate, the choice between “read” and “peruse” can vary depending on the context in which they are used. It’s important to consider the tone and purpose of the writing, as well as the intended audience, when making this decision.

Exceptions To The Rules

Identifying Exceptions

While the rules for using ‘read’ and ‘peruse’ are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where they might not apply.

Explaining Exceptions

One exception is when ‘read’ is used in the sense of interpreting or understanding something. For example:

“I can’t read your handwriting.”
“I can’t read the map.”

In these cases, ‘read’ does not necessarily mean physically reading something, but rather comprehending or interpreting it.

Another exception is when ‘peruse’ is used in a sarcastic or ironic way. For example:

“I just perused the entire dictionary in five minutes.”
“I only had time to peruse the entire library.”

In these cases, ‘peruse’ is used to imply that the speaker did not actually read or review the entire dictionary or library, but rather skimmed or glanced over it.

Providing Examples

Here are a few more examples of exceptions to the rules:

Exception	Example
‘Read’ used to mean ‘interpret’	“I can’t read your emotions.”
‘Peruse’ used sarcastically	“I perused the entire internet in ten minutes.”
‘Read’ used to mean ‘study’	“I need to read for my exam.”

It’s important to keep in mind that these exceptions are not the norm and should be used sparingly. In most cases, ‘read’ and ‘peruse’ should be used in their traditional sense.

Practice Exercises

Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between “read” and “peruse,” it’s time to put your knowledge into practice. Here are some exercises to help you improve your usage of these two words:

Exercise 1:

Fill in the blank with the appropriate word:

She ___________ the menu before ordering.

Answer: perused

Exercise 2:

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence:

He ________ the newspaper every morning.

read
perused

Answer: read

Exercise 3:

Write a sentence using “read” and another sentence using “peruse.”

Example:

I read the entire novel in one sitting.

She perused the magazine while waiting in the doctor’s office.

Exercise 4:

Identify the correct word to use in the following sentences:

He ___________ the contract before signing it.

She ___________ the email quickly before responding.

They ___________ the instructions carefully before assembling the furniture.

Answers: perused, read, read

Remember, practice makes perfect. Keep practicing your usage of “read” and “peruse” to ensure that you are using the correct word in the appropriate context.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the difference between “read” and “peruse” may seem insignificant, but it can have a significant impact on the clarity and precision of your writing. Here are the key takeaways:

The Meaning Of “Read” And “Peruse”

“Read” means to look at and comprehend the meaning of written or printed matter by interpreting the characters or symbols of which it is composed.
“Peruse” means to read or examine with great care, attention, and detail.

While both words involve the act of reading, “peruse” implies a more thorough and deliberate reading than “read.”

How To Choose Between “Read” And “Peruse”

When deciding between “read” and “peruse,” consider the context and purpose of your writing. If you want to convey a casual or general sense of reading, “read” is appropriate. However, if you want to emphasize the careful and detailed nature of your reading, “peruse” is a better choice.

The Importance Of Grammar And Language Use

Finally, it is important to remember that precise language use and proper grammar are essential for effective communication. By continuing to learn and improve your writing skills, you can ensure that your message is clear, concise, and impactful.

So, whether you are a student, a professional, or simply someone who loves language, keep exploring the nuances of grammar and vocabulary. Your writing will thank you.

Shawn Manaher

Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.